In an age where we do almost everything online, scammers are finding more invasive ways to get to our hard-earned money. One of the most effective methods currently doing the rounds is the screen sharing scam.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is urging consumers to stay vigilant. But what exactly are these scams, and how can you spot the red flags before it’s too late?
What is a Screen Sharing Scam?
A screen sharing scam is a tactic used by criminals to view your private information or gain direct access to your bank accounts. By convincing you to share your screen, they can watch you type passwords, access sensitive documents, and even initiate money transfers right in front of your eyes.
Criminals often initiate contact in several ways:
Out of the blue: Direct messages on social media or unexpected phone calls.
Search Engine Traps: Fake contact details for legitimate companies or "too good to be true" investment opportunities appearing in search results.
The "Helpful" Hustle
Once they have you on the line, the scammer will try to build trust. They might pose as a helpful technician, a banking official, or a savvy investment broker.
To "help" you, they will ask you to download legitimate software—tools you may have used for work or to chat with family, such as AnyDesk, Microsoft Teams, TeamViewer, or Zoom. Because the software itself is reputable, many people feel a false sense of security.
The Golden Rule: The scam can only happen if you download the software and grant them control. Once they’re in, your personal information and financial accounts are an open book.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Unsolicited Contact: If a firm or individual contacts you out of the blue, treat it with extreme suspicion.
The Screen Share Request: No legitimate financial firm will ever ask to remotely access your computer or phone to process an investment or help with a banking issue.
High Pressure: Scammers use "ticking clock" tactics to make you act before you think.
Unrealistic Returns: If an investment opportunity sounds too good to be true, it almost certainly is.
How to Protect Yourself
Never Share Your Screen: Even if you were the one who searched for the company online, never grant remote access to your device.
Verify via the FCA: Only deal with financial services firms authorised by the FCA. Use the
FCA Firm Checker Use Official Contact Details: If you need to speak to a firm, only use the phone number or email address listed on the FCA Firm Checker—not the details provided in an email or by a caller.
Check the Warning List: Consult the
FCA Warning List
If Things Go Wrong
If you suspect you’ve been targeted or have already shared your screen, take action immediately:
Report it: Contact the FCA on 0800 111 6768 or via their
online contact form Alert your bank: If you've shared access, call your bank immediately to freeze your accounts.
Watch for "Recovery Scams": Fraudsters often sell victim lists to other criminals. Be wary of follow-up calls claiming they can recover your lost money for a "small fee"—this is simply the next phase of the scam.
Before making any big financial moves, consider getting independent advice from MoneyHelper or exploring the FCA’s InvestSmart pages to help you stay in control of your money.
